By Nelson Ayivor
As Africa commemorated this year’s African Union (AU) Day, President of the Forum of Kings, Queens, Princes, Sultans and Sheiks of Africa, Torgbiga Amenya Fiti V, has renewed calls for the establishment of a single African currency, a common African passport and the removal of restrictive borders across the continent to accelerate unity, trade and development.
Speaking in an interview, Torgbiga Amenya Fiti V said Africa’s quest for true liberation and economic transformation could only be achieved when African nations begin to operate as one people with shared economic and political interests.
According to him, the continued existence of rigid border systems and multiple currencies among African states remains a major obstacle to intra-African trade, free movement and continental integration.
He noted that although Africa possesses enormous natural and human resources, many countries continue to struggle economically because the continent remains fragmented.
“The dream of the founding fathers of Africa was a united continent where Africans can move freely, trade freely and build prosperity together. We must not allow artificial boundaries to divide us forever,” he stated.
Torgbiga Amenya Fiti V stressed that the introduction of a common African currency would strengthen regional trade, reduce dependence on foreign currencies and help stabilize African economies.
He further argued that a single African passport would ease movement across the continent, create opportunities for businesses and promote cultural integration among African citizens.
The Aflao Paramount ruler also advocated for stronger implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing it as a major pathway towards economic independence and continental prosperity.
He urged African leaders to place the interests of the continent above partisan and national considerations, adding that unity remains Africa’s greatest weapon against poverty, conflict and external economic domination.
Touching on the role of the youth, Torgbiga Amenya Fiti V encouraged young Africans to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship and Pan-African ideals to help shape the future of the continent.
He also called for peace and political stability across Africa, saying development can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and security.
African Union Day, celebrated annually on May 25, commemorates the formation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, now known as the African Union. The occasion is used to reflect on Africa’s progress, challenges and aspirations for deeper continental integration.
This year’s observance saw renewed discussions across the continent on economic cooperation, youth empowerment, regional security and the need to strengthen Africa’s collective voice on global issues.